positive – Renew Inspiration Mind Body Spirit

Change Is Coming

LaPorterOctober 10, 20185 Replies

butterfly, orange flowers, change — pexels

All great changes are preceded by chaos. – Unknown

Something to Think About – When it comes to making a big change in your life you have to want it more than you fear it.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I want to dedicate this blog post to Mental Health Awareness. Today, I want to focus on “change” as it relates to our total life experience – MIND, BODY and SPIRIT. I don’t know about you, but I honestly feel a positive change is coming in my life. I can feel it in my mind (positive thoughts), body (feeling relaxed) and my spirit (spiritually grounded). I can see it all around me each day. How about you? Can you see and feel the change that is meant to be in your life right now in this very moment?

When you hear the word “change” what is the first thing that come to mind? For me, I think of the weather. This week Michigan’s weather has been in the low 80s, but by the weekend it will be in the low 50s. Talk about change, right? On a personal level when I think about change I cannot help but think about my life and how my thoughts are constantly changing from day to day. One day I can be positive and upbeat then the next day I may feel anxious or depressed. One day I may be enjoying my writing experiences then the next day I may just sit on the couch just looking out the window. Let’s face it, feeling anxious and depressed are all so real for many people. There are many people who continue to live their lives alone and broken without any help to work through these most difficult moments. To be honest, it may not be no one’s fought at all. Some people are born with mental health issues and other people experience life changing situations, such death of a loved one, divorce, foster care, adoption, bullying, rape, unemployment, financial hardship, etc. Our internal emotions are very strong forces that sometimes have a mind of their own.

Growth is painful. Change is painful. But nothing is as painful as staying stuck somewhere you don’t belong. – Unknown

When my mother passed away in December 2015, it changed my life completely. I have not been the same since. I am still going through the grieving process but realized throughout the early stages that I needed help. I could not handle all of my emotional feelings and I felt my mental state was all over the place. At that time, I did not realize I was experiencing depression. Sometimes it creeps up on you and if you are not careful, it will cripple your inner being. It is important to share your personal story so that others who may be experiencing similar situations will know that it is possible to endure, go through and overcome.

Today I plan to close the door to the past, hold my head up high so I can open the door to the future, then take a deep breath, step out on faith to go through the open door and start a new chapter in my life. Are you with me? I know it feels scary sometimes and you may feel like you are all alone. It takes courage to let go of the familiar and embrace the new. Sometimes our lives have to be completely shaken up, changed, and rearranged to relocate us to the place we’re meant to be. Always remember, YOU are allowed to change, but you must decide to take the first step.

The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are. – Unknown

Positive Affirmations

Every next level of your life will demand a different version of you. I will allow change to take place in my life on today. No exceptions. No excuses. I plan to water my roots, so my soul can blossom. Now, repeat after me:

• I plan to trust and believe in God.
• I will love myself and believe in myself.
• I plan to encourage myself and others each day.
• I plan to inspire others by using one of my gifts.
• I will speak positive vibes each day.
• I will embrace change in my life.
• I will step out on faith throughout my journey.
• I plan to endure and overcome heartache, pain, suffering, sadness and loneliness.
• I plan to show courage and boost my own confidence.
• I am powerful enough to be that change in someone else’s life.
• I will commit to improving my personal well-being (MIND, BODY & SPIRIT).

Repeat these positive affirmations each day. Feel free to add your own to the list or change some of the words to make it personal. The idea here is to speak positive words in your spirit each day and eventually you will believe, then become what you are speaking.

Ways to Help you Adjust to Change

Here’s some ways to help you adjust to change:

• Read and study God’s Word. Plant the scriptures in your heart.

• Seek God’s face each day through prayer and meditation. Make your requests known.

• Pray a specific prayer for positive change in and around your life.

• Set personal goals and a plan to achieve them. Put it in writing and look at it often.

• Journaling practice helps to get your thoughts on to paper and out of your head.

• Make time for self-reflection. Go for a walk, spend time journaling, reading, drawing, meditating or coloring. Do what makes your soul happy and keeps your mind relaxed.

• If you feel that your mental stability is getting worse, seek Professional help in the form of therapy from a licensed therapist or social worker, medication to treat depression or anxiety, or support groups to help share your feelings with like-minded individuals.

journaling, writing, coffee, expression, change — pixabay

Time for Reflection – Journal Prompts

MIND

You must learn to master a new way to think before you can master a new way to be. – Marianne Williamson

• Write about personal beliefs or things that held you back in the past? How do you plan to avoid them in the future?

• How can you create a space to help clear your mind?

• What are some of your mental obstacles in life that are holding you back?

• Our passion is typically something that brings us pleasure. What are some of your most passionate thoughts and how do you nurture them?

BODY

These mountains that you are carrying, you were only supposed to climb. – Najwa Zebian

• Imagine what a new beginning would look like or how it would feel. Write about it.

• Sit or stand very still. What are you feeling right now in this very moment?

• What are you having a hard time accepting in your life?

• What are your strengths and weaknesses?

SPIRIT

Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord. (Psalm 31:24)

• What steps do I need to take to become spiritually grounded in God’s Word?

• What is holding you back from trusting and believing in God?

• Does my life reflect what my heart desire? If not, what changes can I make?

• Stand in the rain and let it wash you clean. Feel grounded in the Earth. Write about all of your senses (sight, smell, sound, touch, taste).

pink flower, patience, hidden, within — pixabay

Time for Reflection – Quotes

Change is coming. Embrace every bud, every bloom, every moment. – Unknown

If nothing ever changed, there’d be no butterflies. – Unknown

Life will only change when you become committed to your dreams than you are to your comfort zone. – Billy Cox

The secret to change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new. – Socrates

Don’t let the concept of change scare you as much as the prospect of remaining unhappy. – Timber Hawkeye

Every positive change in your life begins with a clear, unequivocal decision that you are going to either do something or stop doing something. – Unknown

The 3 C’s in Life:
Choice, Chance, Change.
You must make the choice, to take the chance, if you want anything in life to change.

Share Your Thoughts in the Comment Section

Remember, change is a powerful and necessary process that happens in life. It is important to know how to react to your personal experiences and to realize when life’s changes may cause anxiety or depression. At that time, don’t be afraid or ashamed to seek help from a Professional therapist or social worker. What are your thoughts or feelings about this blog post? Do you know anyone who suffers from anxiety or depression? Are you willing to do the necessary work in order to change your life or bad habits?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

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Push Harder – Goal Setting 101

LaPorterSeptember 15, 201810 Replies

flowers, notebook, pen, coffee, goals — pexels

The harder you work for something, the greater you’ll feel when you achieve it. – Unknown

Thought for today – Don’t expect to see change if you don’t make one.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Some people are inspired to dance, to sing, to draw, to become a doctor, an engineer, a teacher, an entrepreneur, to do mission work, to lose weight, to be great parents, and even to be the President of the United States. In order to stay inspired to do great things in life, you have to give and receive remarkable influence throughout your journey. You have to work hard and show your passion for whatever you set your heart out to do. You have to surround yourself with like-minded people, so you will feel the positive synergy around you.

Well, as many of you already know, I have decided to become an inspirational blogger. I have a passion to write and to express my thoughts on paper. In addition, I love to encourage and inspire others to reach his or her full potential. As I help others, I become a stronger person throughout my personal journey. Always remember, no matter what your goals are, there has to be a fire within you in order for you to strive to reach your goals. You have to think positive and plan for success.

Well, how do you start? First, you should set some personal goals for yourself. However, not just any kind of goals, make sure you set S.M.A.R.T. goals as well as H.E.A.R.T. goals.

S – Specific – Well defined so that anyone can understand the goal
M – Measurable – Needs to have parameters in order to know if the goal was achieved
A – Attainable – Must be a realistic goal that challenges you
R – Relevant – Make sure the goal is consistent with your other goals and will aid you in achieving your long-term goal
T – Time Oriented – Create a time frame for when you want to accomplish your goal

Here’s an example of my S.M.A.R.T. goal:

Simple Goal – I want to improve my health.
Smart Goal – I will improve my health by eating 100 grams of protein, drinking 64oz of water and exercising every day.

Next, you need to write down your goals to clarify and strengthen your daily intentions. Break down your goals into small and manageable steps to overcome any anxiety you may have. Hold yourself accountable by maintaining focus and discipline throughout the process. Rewarding yourself will help reinforce the positive actions you’ve taken so you can continue doing it every day. Effective systems and habits make it easier for you to accomplish your goals on a regular basis. Simply put, your success is found in your daily routine.

S.M.A.R.T goals are good, but H.E.A.R.T. goals will help balance your life. Make sure your goals don’t make your to-do list unachievable, then you will be off track.

H – Help yourself. You have to take care of you. You cannot pour from an empty cup.
E – Everyone else. People matter so share love with others around you. Be kind to strangers.
A – Attitude and academics. Have a positive attitude. Never stop learning.
R – Resources. Steward time, money and energy well.
T – Trade and Business. Find your passion. Enjoy a fun hobby. Then, start a business.

Here’s an example of my H.E.A.R.T. goals:

• Read God’s Word, pray and meditate daily.
• Exercise for at least 60 minutes per day.
• Daily Steps at least 12,000 steps per day.
• Sleep for at least 7 hours per day.
• Research, write and publish at least 5 articles per week.
• Research, write and publish at least 3 inspirational blogs per week.
• Read an inspirational book or positive affirmations daily.
• Write in my mood journal daily.

Set some goals, then demolish them. – Unknown

Make a Plan

After you establish your goals, now it is time to create and follow a plan to make your goals a reality. Here’s some important tips to keep in mind during the planning process:

• Make clear deadlines for achieving your goals.

• Set personal milestones to stay motivated.

• Decide what actions are required to reach your goals.

• Put your actions into a schedule that is easy to follow.

• Readjust your goals or plan as you see fit throughout your journey.

Setting Goals – Quotes to Live By

• You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream. – C.S. Lewis

• Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible to the visible. – Tony Robbins

• Life takes on meaning when you become motivated, set goals and charge after them in an unstoppable manner. – Les Brown

• Your ability to discipline yourself to set clear goals, and then to work toward them every day, will do more to guarantee your success than any other single factor. – Brian Tracy

flower, lilypads, goals, meditate, peaceful, quiet — pexels

Time for Reflection – Journal Prompts

Here’s some journal prompts that will help you push harder on those challenging days. Go to your quiet place, pull out your journal and start answering some of these questions. Make sure to reflect on your answers throughout your journey.

• How often do you set goals for yourself?

• How do you determine if something is important enough to set a goal for it?

• How successful have you been at achieving the goals you have set for yourself? Discuss some successes and failures of previous goals.

• What are your biggest personal milestones?

• How well are you currently balancing life?

• How confident do you feel about who you are?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Shake Off Worry and Anxiety

LaPorterSeptember 12, 201813 Replies

flower, worry, anxiety, renew, inspiration — pexels

Worrying is a waste of time. It doesn’t change anything, it just clouds your mind and steals your happiness. – Unknown

Thought for today – Not once does the Bible say, “Worry about it” or “Stress over it” or “Figure it out.” But over and over the Bible clearly says, “TRUST GOD.”

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank Him for all He has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Lately, I have found it very difficult to shake off worry and anxiety. I have promised myself, that I would write about topics that I personally experience so I can help others who may be going through similar life changing situations. If you live your life constantly worrying about things that are out of your control or have anxiety that cause you to stray away from things you love to do, then it’s time to SHAKE OFF worry and anxiety for good. Are you with me?

What’s my story related to worry and anxiety? I’m going to be honest, I never really worried a lot or felt anxiety to the point where I would not do certain things until my mother passed away in 2015. It was at this point that I felt like a total failure because I could not help my mother fight her Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It was so difficult just watching her breathing get worse and worse. My mother was a small woman with strength of a lion, but COPD broke her body down quickly right before my eyes.

Even writing these words stirred up emotions inside of me, but I continued so I can help someone else who may be experiencing the same thing. The grieving process has been very difficult for me, but I turned to writing as a way to release my pain and emptiness inside. In addition, I found a great therapist as well to help me cope with my emotions, thoughts and feelings. I am glad to say that I no longer blame myself for my mother’s death. I realize I had no control of her chronic illness and God’s timing. This process has shown me that you can learn different ways to handle worry and anxiety, but it’s fair to say that it may never leave your body for good, it’s just resting inside waiting for an opportunity to arise.

Anxiety comes from trying too hard to control the future. – Unknown

Did you know that worry and anxiety often times goes hand in hand? Let’s define both.

Anxiety can be defined as a feeling that lives inside us and blocks us from fully living the life we want to live. Anxiety has various symptoms that can be felt anywhere in the body. Anxiety can happen at any time and it can influence our thoughts, emotions, actions and physical health.

On the other hand, worry can give way to anxiety or unease. Worry allow one’s mind to dwell on difficulty or troubles surrounding one’s life. Worries are a chain of thoughts based in words. For example, “What will happen if” … “It will be terrible when” … “What if I can’t”.

Experiencing worry and anxiety in our lives are natural, but when they become chronic and trapping your mind in vicious cycles with no resolutions, is when they become a problem.

water, worry, anxiety, renew, inspiration — pexels

Worry Triggers

Let’s face it, we all have issues that we worry about, right? Sometimes we’re not even aware of why we’re worrying, when we’re doing it or what we tend to worry about the most. We just know that we often feel anxious and we find ourselves stuck in a vicious cycle of worry. One of the ways to break this vicious cycle is to be aware of which things trigger our anxiety.

• Is it when we’re in certain places?

• Particular times of the day?

• When we’re around certain people?

Many different things can trigger worry and understanding your particular triggers can help you process and establish ways to respond to your anxious feelings. Keep in mind that anxiety can trick you into believing your thoughts are reality. When you’re feeling anxious, you struggle to distinguish what you’re actually experiencing and what your thoughts are projecting. Begin to divert your attention from the thoughts inside your head to what is real around you. Pay attention to what you’re doing right now in this very moment, not on your worries or anxiety.

Feeling Overwhelmed

• Take slow, deep breaths, as many as you need to in order to feel calm.

• While breathing slowly and deeply, visualize a peaceful, soothing place. Examples may include walking on the beach, taking a hike in the woods, reading a good book, sitting in a meditation pose, doing yoga, etc.

• You can pair deep breathing exercises with aromatherapy using a candle or essential oil diffuser to infuse the air with a calming, relaxing scent such as lavender, rose, bergamot or chamomile.

• Drink a soothing, noncaffeinated tea. Great herbs for reducing anxiety include lavender, chamomile, passionflower, hawthorn, kava, ginseng and lemon balm.

• Ground yourself physically in a way that feels comfortable. For example, you may sit in a chair with your feet firmly planted on the floor or you can stand with your feet planted on the floor and your back pressed against a wall.

• Notice negative thoughts and replace them with simple positive ones. For example, I can’t handle this becomes I am handling this right now and I know this anxiety will soon pass.

Finding What Works for You

It’s impossible for you to completely eliminate anxiety from your life, but you can significantly lessen its hold over your life. Part of this process is learning when it might show up (triggers) and coming up with a plan to deal with it when it does (solutions).

• Understand your specific symptoms. What are your thoughts when your anxiety escalates? In what situations do your symptoms intensify? Lessen?

• Know what works for you. Which strategies are helpful in moments of high anxiety? Examples could be deep breathing exercises, mindfulness exercises, meditation, journaling or talking with a support person.

• Schedule therapy sessions with a mental health professional. Be open and honest.

• Find a support group in your area or online to help you gain another perspective on your anxiety. Don’t be afraid to share your experiences, listen to others and give/receive feedback.

• Visit your local library and check out some books on worry and anxiety.

• Spend some time regularly doing meditation, mindfulness exercises or yoga along with deep breathing exercises.

• Write down your thoughts and feelings in your journal or notebook. Then, reflect on them throughout your journey.

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Positive Affirmations

Positive affirmations help to change your current mindset and boost your self-confidence.

• May I live peacefully alongside all of my emotions and worry.

• May I accept what is happening in my life, moment by moment.

• May my acceptance give me courage to face situations and people.

• May I live my life fully and freely, enjoying my life even when I feel anxious.

• May my loved ones enjoy this acceptance and freedom, too.

Time for Reflection – Journal Prompts

Find time for reflection and write answers to the journal prompts in your journal or notebook.

• What positive things will begin to take the place of worry and anxiety?

• What are your biggest challenges that prevent you from overcoming worry and anxiety?

• What are some of your worry triggers?

• When do you find yourself worrying about these triggers?

• Where are you when this worry is at its peak?

• What makes your worry or anxiety worse? What makes it better?

Prayer for Worry and Anxiety

Heavenly Father, I am feeling worried, anxious, and stressed on today. Too many things occupy my mind. Won’t you help me feel calm? Show me Lord, your order and your plans for my life. Teach me to trust in your will alone. Your Word tells me where there is love, there is no fear. Your perfect love drives out all fear from my mind and my life. Let me be filled with your love. The perfect love that tells me I am not condemned, but I am saved through your amazing grace. I can do all things, through you who strengthens me. In Jesus Mighty Name, Amen.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Choose to Shine

LaPorterSeptember 8, 20188 Replies

As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. – Nelson Mandela, 1994 Inaugural Speech

Thought for today – I admire people who choose to shine even after all the storms they have been through.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I choose to shine bright on today. How about you? Now, it’s important to note that the ways I choose to shine may be different than yours on any given day, but the end result should be the same, we’re shining! Our lives should be an example and reflect positive vibes through the eyes of others. For example, it seems like random people always offer positive compliments regarding my smile or grateful compliments for the kind gestures that I showed them (holding the door open or just saying hello or good morning. Even when I am not feeling well or just simply having a bad day, I try hard not to reflect my negative vibes and feelings toward others. As we travel along this journey called life, we will experience some ups and downs. However, the way we respond to life’s challenges is the key to overcoming the obstacles that occur in our lives.

I am totally safe and surrounded by love, light, peace and joy. – Unknown

sun, shine, sky, mountains, peace — pexels

Choose to Shine

• Read God’s Word, pray and meditate.

• Smile and believe in yourself. Yes, believe in the awesome person you’re becoming.

• Show kindness everywhere you go. Especially, to unkind people.

• Forgive people who don’t deserve it. Then, let it go.

• Acknowledge your patterns of stress and release them into the atmosphere.

• Move out of your comfort zone throughout your journey so you can grow.

• Allow yourself time to heal from life’s challenging moments.

• Be gentle and patient with yourself. Practice self-care routines.

• Love unconditionally. Find time for self-reflection and to write in your journal.

FREEChoose to Shine AffirmationsCLICK HERE

Daily To-Do List

• Be grateful and count your blessings

• Practice kindness

• Let go of what you can’t control

• Listen to your heart

• Be productive yet calm

• Just breathe and live life to its fullest

Time to Reflect – Life Lessons

• Start where you are, use what you have and do what you can.

• Become more aware of what’s really worth your energy.

• If you want to know where your heart is, look where your mind goes when it wanders.

• Being happy doesn’t mean everything’s perfect. It means you’ve decided to look beyond the imperfections.

• Knowledge is learning something every day. Wisdom is letting go of something every day.

• The only keeper of your happiness is you. Stop giving people the power to control your smile, your worth and your attitude. – Mandy Hale, SimpleReminders.com

Every situation in life is meant to be temporary. When life is going as planned, make sure to enjoy every moment. And when life is not going as planned, know that it will not last forever and better days are sure to follow. Remember, your actions will always reflect who you are so the closer you get to being who you are meant to be…the brighter you shine! Now, here’s an opportunity for me to hear from you. Please leave a comment and share your feedback. How do you choose to shine during life’s most difficult times?

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Ways to Restore Yourself

LaPorterSeptember 5, 20188 Replies

restore, refresh, rest, reflection, replenishment — pixabay

He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. (Psalm 23:3)

Thought for today – God is fixing the broken pieces of your life. Get ready for restoration. God is preparing you for everything you prayed for.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! As I sit here thinking about how great God is in our lives, I cannot help but wonder why we will not just be still, get out of God’s way and allow Him to restore our souls. Now, let’s think about that for a moment. We read God’s Word, pray, meditate, and attend church services week after week, right? So, why do we forget to let God order our daily steps and thoughts? We have to remember that we cannot restore ourselves, but we must be restored by God.

FREEPositive AffirmationsCLICK HERE

3 Spiritual Principles for Restoring Your Soul

• Rest – Enjoy a time of relaxation in God’s presence. Examples: Read God’s Word, pray and meditate

• Reflection – As we look back over our lives, we should feel protected, safe and secure under the leadership of God.

• Replenishment – Now that we are living a renewed life for God, we cannot help but anticipate being with God forever in the future.

You will never change your life, until you change something you do daily. – Unknown

Ways to Restore Yourself

It’s important to realize that you have the power to cultivate positive energy within your body in any given moment. Yes, even when you are exhausted, burned out and feel like you’ve got nothing left to give, your body can guide you to a peaceful place of greater vitality, inner strength and well-being.

• Rest when your body says rest. When you listen to your body and give yourself the rest you need, you’ll rebuild your energy over the long-term.

• Cultivate stillness within you. Allow yourself to feel the stillness around you, letting it soak into your body.

• Practice whole-body breathing. Feel your breath inside your body and notice how far it reaches within you.

• Nourish your body wholeheartedly. Be conscious and heartfelt in how you nourish your body by choosing healthy foods that feel inherently good for you.

• Explore gentle and restorative movement. Light walking, stretching, yoga can help you regain energy in your body and life.

• Have compassion for yourself. Be gentle with yourself when you’re exhausted and treat yourself kindly. Be kind in your thoughts and feelings towards yourself.

• Nurture what inspires you. Feed and nurture what truly inspire you through your thoughts, energy and actions.

• Be vigilant with your time. Learn to guard your time like the precious gift that it is. Choose how you spend time, ensuring that you schedule plenty of quality time and space to care for yourself.

Positive Affirmations

• I choose to feel good about myself each day.

• My body is healthy, strong and beautiful.

• I can quiet my mind and my thoughts whenever I want.

• Everything always works out for me.

• Everything I need is within me. I welcome miracles into my life.

Time for Reflection

Here’s some questions to help you reflect on God and how He restores your soul. Be open and honest with yourself as you answer the questions in your journal. Make sure to reflect on these thoughts throughout your journey.

• How has God restored your soul?

• Every day is a new opportunity to learn something new, whether you planned to or not. What was today’s lesson for you?

• What made you smile today? Make a list of all the things that brought you happiness.

• Every day is an opportunity to become better than you were yesterday. Set at least 3 short-term goals for yourself. On your mark, get set, write.

• What are some of your proudest moments, and why?

• Life is all about balance. Some days you’ll be happy and others, not so much. Write down a brief description of one of the saddest moments you’ve ever experienced. How did you cope with your sadness?

Remember, it’s important not to forget where God has taken us from but knowing that God still has plans for our lives. To be totally restored takes time as well as our precious minds focused on God and His greatness. Then, and only then will God renew us with hope and joy leaving us with much needed anticipation for eternity.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Peace in the Midst of a Storm

LaPorterAugust 5, 20181 Reply

Inner peace begins the moment you choose not to allow another person or event to control your emotions. – Pema Chodron

Thought for today – At the end of the day, I am at peace because my intentions are good, and my heart is pure.

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! It seems like it has been so long since I have shared a blog post with you. Unfortunately, life happens to the best of us, right? Today, I want to talk about the “Peace in the Midst of a Storm”. Whether your storm is BIG or small, it takes internal strength to overcome many obstacles in life. After all, as long as we are living on Earth, we will always experience some type of storm. So, instead of living your life worrying about the “what ifs”, spend time preparing your mindset with peaceful thoughts, such as scriptures, prayers, positive affirmations, inspirational quotes, uplifting words, etc.

Peace

Today I choose: calm over chaos; serenity over stress; peace over perfection; grace over grit; faith over fear. – Mary Davis

Today, I am totally safe and surrounded by love, light, peace, and joy. Today, I invite peace and harmony to dwell in me and surround me at all times. Today, I have the freedom and power to create the life I desire. It is important to speak peace into your life every day. How about you? Can you honestly say these statements with confidence? It is important for you to know that you already have peace within you, right now, in this very moment. Just because you may be struggling right now, does not mean you are failing life forever. Keep believing in yourself and good things will happen in the near future.

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In the Midst

In the midst of life’s greatest storms, do not forget your divine heritage as a son or daughter of God. -Ronald A. Rasband

In the midst of it all, what do you feel? What are your thoughts? How do you cope with every day struggles of life? Now, I realize my struggles may be different from your struggles, but can we agree that it takes a strategy to not only cope with the struggles of life, but to overcome such struggles?

Let’s face it, painful life experiences often leave heart-deep scars within us. Even though danger is long past, fear still lingers around us. It affects our present relationships and experiences, and even our perception of God. We may never know why it has happened to us, but we do know that we can and will survive it. We also know that God has given us a new day and a new season to reach out for His blessings in joy and gratitude. Painful experiences leave scars within us, but they also leave strength and wisdom in the midst of the storm, giving us the opportunity to help those enduring similar trials.

Storms of Life

Your storm is bigger than you are, but your Jesus is bigger than your storm. -Ron Hutchcraft

Even in the midst of life’s many storms, we have the capacity to stand in the center of our own peace. Now, let’s think about that for a moment before we proceed. When you are faced with the storms of life, think about how God is your strength and power; God is your protector and He will guide you through the storms of life if you let Him. Needless to say, it is always our choice. Will we allow God to lead us or will we try to handle our storms ourselves?

Here’s some storms of life examples:

• Stress
• Health Issues
• Financial Difficulties
• Unemployment
• Wayward Children
• Divorce
• Lack of Transportation
• Mental Illness (Depression, Anxiety)
• Imprisonment
• Grieving the Loss of a Loved One
• Various Addictions

To Overcome Life’s Obstacles

God promises to make something good out of the storms that bring devastation to your life. (Romans 8:28)

When was the last time you not only experienced a storm in your life, but you push through the storm with your inner strength? If you struggle in this area, please follow these tips to overcome life’s obstacles:

• Stay focused on positive thoughts instead of negative thoughts
• Don’t ever give up
• Challenge yourself and try new things every day
• Each day you should choose happiness
• Choose to shine and smile
• Don’t compare yourself to others and find time to celebrate your little accomplishments

pink, flower, journal, book, write, pen — pixabay

Journal Prompts – Time for Reflection
Are you ready to write yourself into a peaceful state? If so, grab your journal and let’s get started. Journaling should be a safe place for you to write how you feel and to reflect on your heart felt thoughts. This is your personal journey so make sure you are honest throughout the process.

MIND – Meditate on peaceful thoughts. Define those thoughts in detail and write about them.

BODY – What do you feel right now in this very moment? Listen to your body and write about it.

SPIRIT – How do you cope with struggles? What set a spark in your soul? Write about it.

Remember, my storm may be different from yours, but at the end of the day we both are in the midst of something that makes us uncomfortable. Instead of ignoring and judging others, let’s be more supportive to others who may be experiencing difficult life situations. Sometimes just lending a listening ear will do wonders. Life is not about weathering the storm, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

I WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU
Please share what brings peace into your life. How do you find peace within? How do you overcome obstacles in life? Can you write yourself into a peaceful state? I look forward to reading your comments and feedback!

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Leave the Past Behind

LaPorterMay 31, 20185 Replies

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:6

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! I am starting over today, right now in this very moment. Yes, as I type these words to inspire you, I am also being inspired. I want to erase all negative thoughts and feelings from my inner being. I want to replace all negativity with a new pattern of positive thoughts and feelings; a new wave of emotional balance and well-being; a new connection to my life as I know it, think it and feel it. There will be a new belief system inscribed within me.

The beauty of life is, while we cannot undo what is done, we can see it, understand it, learn from it and change so that every new moment is spent not in regret, guilt, fear or anger but in wisdom, understanding and love. – Jennifer Edwards

How many times do you think about the past? It could be past events, death, thoughts, people, relationships, choices, successes, failures, etc. While it is not against the law to think about the past, be careful not to get caught up in an emotional web or bondage that may keep you from moving forward. Each day I wake up, I thank God for allowing me another chance to get my life back on track. What do I mean by that? Well, we are human and last, I remember, all humans make mistakes. We should live and learn from our mistakes, not dwell in them.

Face each day with a positive attitude. Dig deep inside to strive for new opportunities that surround us every day. Focus on right now and not what ifs. Believe it or not, even as I type these words, it seems easier said than done. I realize it will not be easy for some, but to move to a better place in life, we sometimes need to place ourselves in uncomfortable situations and/or conversations. Involve yourself with like-minded individuals who build you up and not tear you down.

Here’s some ways to help you leave the past behind:

• Write your thoughts and feelings in a journal
• Share your thoughts and feelings with a trusted family member or friend
• Seek professional help from a licensed therapist
• Read and be grounded in God’s Word
• Meditate and be prayerful
• Practice yoga and stretch routines
• Read inspirational and spiritual books
• Set some attainable goals for yourself
• Post positive quotes where you can read them daily
• Recite positive affirmations throughout your day

The only way to get over the past is to leave it behind. If you spend your time re-living moments that are gone forever, you might miss the special moments that are yet to come. – Susan Gale

Mind – Meditation
The thing about meditation is: You become more and more you. – David Lynch

According to the Wikipedia, meditation can be defined as a practice where an individual focuses his or her mind on an object, thought, or activity to achieve a mentally clear and emotionally calm state. It’s important to start with good breathing techniques when doing your meditation. In addition, create a peaceful and safe place where you will not be distracted during your meditation. Remember, to let go of all frustrations throughout the meditation process. Then, you will feel refreshed, renewed, and at peace.

• Has your mind spent more time today focused on the past, present, or future?
• What are your priorities in life? What helps you to stay on track?
• How do you keep your thoughts in check throughout the day?

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Body – Set Attainable Goals
Set goals that are well balanced. – M. Russell Ballard

First, you must set attainable goals for yourself. Second, you need to write down your goals to clarify and strengthen your daily intentions. Hold yourself accountable by maintaining focus and discipline throughout your journey. Rewarding yourself will help reinforce the positive actions you’ve taken so you can continue doing it every day. Effective systems and habits make it easier for you to accomplish your goals on a regular basis. Simply put, your success is found in your daily routine.

• What do I want to accomplish in my life today? Tomorrow? Next week? Next month? Next year?
• What are my strengths? What are my weaknesses?
• Discuss one way you would like to grow in the next year.

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Spirit – Self-Reflection
Time spent in self-reflection is never wasted. It is an intimate date with yourself. – Paul TP Wong

Self-reflection is a humbling process. It’s essential to find out why you think, say, and do certain things, then better yourself. I think of self-reflection as making time for ME. Similar, to meditation, you are going to a quiet and safe place away from distractions. Then, you are taking short breaths and paying attention to what is going on within you. Your thoughts, feelings, emotions, all moving to the same rhythm.

• What did you learn about yourself today? This week? This month?
• What are you inviting into your life with your actions or thoughts?
• How can I create more acceptance and happiness in my life?

Don’t close the book when bad things happen in your life, just turn the page and begin a new chapter. – Unknown

blank screen, desk, laptop, work, thoughts, feelings, typing — pixabay

I want to hear from you – Don’t be afraid to start over. It’s a new chance to be creative and to rebuild what you want. Begin to look at your life as a story being written on paper and you are the author. Train your mind to think differently. Train your body to react differently. Train your spirit to feel differently. This will be a process that will continue for a life time. Out with the old and in with the new. Leaving your past behind, old habits, negative thoughts, old relationships, failures, etc.

Please share your thoughts in the blog’s comment section concerning the following questions:

• How do you plan to leave the past behind?
• What methods of release do you use? For example, do you write in a journal, write blogs, read inspirational books, talk to someone, meditate, go for a walk outdoors, etc.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow and forever!

Renew Inspiration is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

Speak from Within

LaPorterMay 8, 20188 Replies

My soul finds rest in God alone: my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress; I will never be shaken. Psalm 62:1-2

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! Today, I want to share some inspirational words with you with a message titled “Speak from Within”. Now, this is a message that you will have to open your heart and be willing to feel the words throughout your soul. I want you to read these words and meditate on what the message really means to you.

Overcomer: 25 Keys to Walking Victoriously

Before we get started, please make sure you have the following:
• Mind – An open mind; Meditation ready
• Body – Willingness to express oneself; Eager to move from one place to another freely
• Spirit – Humble and caring spirit; Broken soul
• Journal or Notebook
• Pen or Pencil

The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. Romans 8:11

What is the message that you need on today? What is it that you need to focus on within your life, right now, in this very moment? I’m stronger because I had to be, I’m smarter because of my mistakes, happier because of the sadness I’ve known, and now wiser because I learned. During our life long journey, it is important for us to speak positive words into our soul. It is important for us to speak success into our inner being. Despite the hurt we may feel or the sadness we experience in life, often times we forget that the power to overcome life’s challenges is already inside you and me. If you feel lost, it is because the heart and mind are not working in harmony, when they work together you will find peace.

Define success on your own terms, achieve it by your own rules, and build a life you’re proud to live. -Anne Sweeney

Depression and grief may rise up within me, but I meditate on positive thoughts to overcome this feeling. But sometimes that is not enough. I’m going to be honest, this is truly a difficult time for me because I have to feel the sadness and experience the grief from my mother’s death. No one can prepare you for the emptiness inside after losing your mother or any loved one for that matter. No words can comfort your heart after it is broken in many pieces. I look up at my mother’s picture and father’s picture every day and think about all of the positive memories that are carefully stored away in my mind and in my heart. Sometimes I shed tears and sometimes I just pick up a pen and just start writing. Now, this is my testimony or life experience however you want to define it. What is your story or experience? It is important to allow yourself to feel and to express honestly. I survived throughout my journey because the fire inside me burned brighter than the fire around me. I had to reflect on scriptures that are hidden in my heart in order to rise up above my problems, situations, depression, sadness, hurt, etc.

Don’t mistake God’s patience for His absence. His timing is perfect, and His presence is constant. He’s always with you! Deuteronomy 31:6

Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you. Matthew 7:7

With God there is no limit to what you can do. There is no obstacle you can’t overcome. Through Him, all things are possible. Matthew 19:26

Hardships often prepare ordinary people for an extraordinary destiny. -C.S. Lewis

As I get older, I realize that decisions become easier when your will to please God outweighs your will to please the world. I know that is a lot to accept at times, but it is truly a choice that you and I have to make each day we wake up. Know that your words, thoughts, and actions speak into your very existence throughout your journey. Whether you agree with me or not, it is important for you to understand where you are. You don’t owe others nothing in life, but you owe everything to yourself. Examine your priorities and make the necessary adjustments in order to make time for personal growth.

Don’t underestimate me. I know more than I say, think more than I speak, and notice more than you realize.

Before you speak, let your words pass through three gates: Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind?

Greatness is hearing your truth and speaking it, no matter how your voice shakes. -Mel Robbins

journal, pen, plant, desk, thoughts, purpose — pexels

Positive Thinking Every Day: An Inspiration for Each Day of the Year

Please grab your journal or notebook and reflect on the journal prompts below. I told you at the beginning of this blog that you will need to be honest with yourself and be willing to feel the words within your soul. If you allow yourself to escape for a moment and answer the questions, you may free yourself from emotional bondage. Keep in mind that this is a journey and everyone takes their own path, makes their own choices, and suffer their own consequences.

Journal Prompts with a Purpose – Positive Thinking – Positive Outcome:
• What do you want people to remember about you?
• If I really loved myself I would ___________________.
• Where do you feel safe and loved?
• What’s your biggest regret?
• What have you done to make amends and/or forgive yourself?
• If you could change just one thing about yourself, what would it be?
• How do you think your life would be better?
• Have you ever tried to change it?
• I think I’m really good at _________________ and I know this because ________________.
• What are you proud of?
• What do you see as your biggest accomplishment?
• If you could be anywhere right now, where would you be?

Gratitude Journal Amazon Affiliate Link

Remember, this is a personal journey. It is important for you to find your safe place and surround yourself with God’s love, peace and joy.

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Embrace Who You Are

LaPorterApril 22, 20185 Replies

Embrace and love your body. It’s the most amazing thing you will ever own. -Unknown

personal, person, surrender, embrace, nature — pixabay

Welcome back to Renew Inspiration! So glad you have returned for more uplifting inspiration that comes from within. Today, let’s focus on this topic: Embrace Who You Are! Now, think about that for a moment and define what that means to you, right now in this very moment. Then, answer this question: What is your personal vision for your life? Take a moment and visualize your life as you want it to be. Go to a quiet, private environment for 15 minutes every day where you can close your eyes and imagine your body, environment, relationships, and life in ways that please you. Always remember, what has been has nothing to do with what will be, and what others experience has nothing to do with your experience. This is the moment where you must find a way to separate yourself from all of the past and from the others in order to be what you want to be. Then, you will be able to embrace your personal journey one step at a time.

The more you embrace and surrender to change, the more you will be supported. -Unknown

hero, embrace, woman, power, strength — pixabay

You have within you, right now, everything you need to deal with whatever the world can throw at you. Do you believe this? Sometimes you have to be your own hero. Do you have the courage to do so? Just because you are struggling throughout your journey does not mean you are failing. Keep believing and the good things will happen. Do you have the faith to believe in yourself? Always remember the one who falls and gets back up is so much stronger than the one who never fell at all. Your purpose is to fully be all that you are. Now, think about that for a moment. Look at yourself in the mirror and tell yourself with confidence – I BELIEVE IN THE PERSON I’M BECOMING!

Your greatest obstacle and your greatest strength stare back at you in the mirror every day. -Unknown

Make your own happiness and peace of mind a priority. Be more positive, be happier, think positive & find greater success by doing the following:

• Write yourself a love letter.
• Learn something new from someone today.
• Choose a positive mantra and repeat it throughout the day.
• Take a moment to write down your values. What is most important in your life?
• Keep good on promises to yourself. Do at least 1 thing to work towards your goals.

Strength grows in the moments when you think you can’t go on but you keep going anyway. -Unknown

Believe in yourself today, tomorrow, and forever!

Gratitude Changes Everything

LaPorterApril 11, 201810 Replies

When gratitude becomes an essential foundation in our lives, miracles start to appear everywhere. -Unknown

So, let’s define gratitude as the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and return kindness. Simply put, gratitude changes everything. Gratitude is one of the sweet shortcuts to finding peace of mind and happiness inside no matter what you might be going through in life. Gratitude changes the way we start the day, spend the day, and look back on the day. For me, my day always begins and ends with gratitude. How about yours?

Living in a state of gratitude is the gateway of grace. -Arianna Huffington

Gratitude Affirmation – I am grateful for another opportunity that life offers me on today. I am grateful for a fresh start, a brand- new way of thinking and a positive outlook on life. I am grateful for the fact that I can learn from my mistakes, and then let them go. I am grateful for my mind, body, and spirit functioning in a way to inspire others using encouraging words from the soul. I am grateful to have God as my guide, my supporter, and my protector. I am grateful for my husband, children, close family, friends, and readers like you who offers me support every step of the way. I am grateful just to have another chance to get my life right and back on track.

Scriptures
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. I Chronicles 16:34 NIV

But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. I Corinthians 15:57 NIV

Gratitude is a lifestyle that you choose. Overtime, choosing gratitude means choosing joy. It’s a choice that requires constantly renewing of your mind with the truth of God’s Word, setting your heart to inspire others with creativity from within, and disciplining your tongue to speak words that reflect God’s goodness and His grace. Honestly, I believe a grateful spirit, rooted in the soil of God’s goodness and grace, will impact how you view and respond to everything in your life. When gratitude becomes your default setting, life changes.

It is not joy that makes us grateful; it is gratitude that makes us joyful. -Unknown

Gratitude Journal
A gratitude journal is a diary of things for which one is grateful. Gratitude journals are used by individuals who wish to focus their attention on the positive things in their lives.

ACTION – Start a gratitude journal to include a personal reflection (goals, thoughts, feelings), affirmation, scriptures, poems, quotes, kind gestures (writing notes, letters, or making phone calls). Be creative and honest. This process will change your life in a positive and uplifting way.

Here are some Gratitude Journal Prompts to help you get started:

• What’s a simple pleasure that you’re grateful for?
• What’s something about your body or health that you’re grateful for?
• What book(s) are you grateful for?
• What’s a tradition that you’re grateful for?
• What’s one of your personality traits that you’re grateful for?
• What mistake or failure are you grateful for?
• What skill(s) do you have that you’re grateful for?
• Look around the room and write about everything you see that you’re grateful for.
• Write about some place you’ve been that you’re grateful for.
• What’s something that you’re grateful to have today that you didn’t have a year ago?